The Wonders of Nepal during Dashain Festival

Kathmandu, Nepal 11 Days - 10 Nights Group: According To Need
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Trip Description

This journey through Nepal is shaped around discovery, spirituality, nature, and one of the country’s most important celebrations: Dashain. It weaves together historic cities, sacred temples, mountain viewpoints, wildlife encounters, and moments of shared cultural life. Traveling during Dashain offers a rare opportunity to experience Nepal at its most vibrant, when families gather, rituals fill the streets, and ancient traditions are lived with deep emotion. From the Kathmandu Valley to the jungles of Chitwan and the serene beauty of Pokhara, this itinerary reveals Nepal in all its richness.

DAY 1 – Arrival in Kathmandu

You depart on a scheduled flight to Kathmandu, gateway to the Himalaya and heart of Nepalese culture.

DAY 2 – Kathmandu

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you are welcomed and transferred to your hotel. In the afternoon, you explore Thamel, the most lively and well known district of Kathmandu. Close to the historic center, it is the ideal place to ease into the rhythm of the city, with its colorful streets, small shops, cafés, and temples.

DAY 3 – Kathmandu, Dakshinkali, Kirtipur, Chobar

After breakfast, you leave Kathmandu for Dakshinkali, home to a powerful temple dedicated to the goddess Kali. The site is deeply symbolic, especially during festive periods. You then ascend Pharping Hill, where sweeping views open over the Himalayan range, accompanied by the peaceful presence of a Buddhist monastery. Lunch is a traditional vegetarian Nepali meal. The journey continues to Kirtipur, a quiet and atmospheric town that reflects the grandeur of its past through medieval temples scattered along narrow streets. You visit the Bagh Bhairab Temple, dedicated to the tiger deity Bhairab, and Chilanchu Vihara, perched on a hilltop with its central stupa surrounded by four smaller ones. On the return to Kathmandu, you stop at the Chobar Gorge, an impressive natural formation overlooking the valley.

DAY 4 – Kathmandu, Patan, Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, Nagarkot

The day begins with a visit to Patan, known as the City of Beauty and one of the ancient capitals of the valley. Temples, monasteries, and palaces line its streets, including the Royal Palace with its finely worked façade, Krishna Mandir, Narayan Mandir, Vishwanath Temple, and Bhimsen Temple. You also visit the Golden Temple, which houses a golden image of Buddha, and the Khumbeshwar Pagoda, before exploring Durbar Square. You then continue to Pashupatinath, the most sacred Hindu site in Nepal, dedicated to Shiva as Pashupati, protector of all living beings. From across the Bagmati River, you observe the rituals and pilgrimages that echo those of the Ganges in India. The day continues at Boudhanath, a major Buddhist pilgrimage site built in the fifth century, where encounters with monks are sometimes possible. In the late afternoon, you travel to Nagarkot, arriving at sunset to enjoy a breathtaking Himalayan panorama.

DAY 5 – Nagarkot, Nala, Bhaktapur

After breakfast, you set off on a gentle walk from Nagarkot to Nala, passing through Tamang and Chettri villages and rural landscapes shaped by daily life. Upon arrival in Nala, you visit the Bhagaveti Temple before continuing to Bhaktapur. This beautifully preserved medieval city is one of the cultural jewels of the Kathmandu Valley. As the day progresses and visitors leave, the atmosphere becomes calmer, allowing you to fully appreciate its squares, temples, and traditional pottery workshops.

DAY 6 – Bhaktapur to Chitwan National Park

After breakfast, you travel south toward Chitwan National Park. Established in 1962, it is the largest national park in Nepal and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The park shelters an extraordinary range of wildlife, including one horned rhinoceroses, deer, antelopes, monkeys, tigers, leopards, bears, crocodiles, and more than three hundred species of birds. Upon arrival, you settle into your lodge surrounded by nature.

DAY 7 – Chitwan National Park

The day is devoted to discovering Chitwan and its surroundings. Activities may include walks through nature or visits to nearby villages to learn about local life. You may also choose a jeep safari to observe wildlife in its natural habitat, or a canoe ride along the river to spot crocodiles and a wide variety of birds. Chitwan offers a rare chance to experience Nepal’s wild side in a peaceful and immersive way.

DAY 8 – Chitwan to Pokhara

After breakfast, you depart for Pokhara. Upon arrival, you explore this lakeside city, known for its relaxed atmosphere and stunning mountain backdrop. You visit Devi’s Fall and, for those who wish, walk up to the World Peace Pagoda, offering wide views over Pokhara, Phewa Lake, and the surrounding peaks.

DAY 9 – Pokhara and Sarangkot, Dashain Festival

An early start takes you to Sarangkot to witness sunrise over the Annapurna range, a moment filled with light and emotion as the mountains slowly reveal themselves. A short and easy walk allows you to enjoy the landscape before returning for breakfast. Later, you enjoy a boat ride on Phewa Lake and visit the Barahi Temple on its small island. You explore the Tibetan village of Tashiling and attend a prayer ceremony at the Hemja Monastery. The International Mountain Museum offers insight into Himalayan culture and mountaineering history. This day is also marked by the celebration of Dashain, Nepal’s most important Hindu festival. Dashain symbolizes the victory of good over evil, celebrated through family gatherings, rituals, and blessings. Elders apply red tika on the foreheads of younger family members while reciting Sanskrit mantras, creating moments of deep cultural meaning. In the evening, you may dine along the lakeside, enjoying views of the mountains reflected on the water.

DAY 10 – Pokhara to Kathmandu

After breakfast, you return to Kathmandu by road. In the evening, you enjoy dinner at a local restaurant serving traditional Nepalese cuisine, accompanied by a folkloric dance performance that brings the journey full circle.

DAY 11 – Kathmandu and Departure

Your final day includes visits to Kathmandu Durbar Square, where the Taleju Temple stands among palaces and courtyards rich in history. You then climb the steps to Swayambhunath, the famous Monkey Temple, one of the most iconic Buddhist stupas in the world. From its hilltop, the stupa watches over the valley with the all seeing eyes of Buddha painted in every direction. According to your flight schedule, you are transferred to the airport, carrying with you memories of landscapes, wildlife, spirituality, and the unique energy of Dashain in Nepal.

Accommodation in Nepal offers a beautiful blend of cultural charm, mountain serenity, and warm hospitality. From elegant boutique hotels in historic cities to peaceful lodges surrounded by Himalayan landscapes, each stay adds a unique dimension to the journey.

SkyZeg Selection
At SkyZeg, we carefully select properties that combine comfort, character, and thoughtful service. Every hotel is chosen for its location, atmosphere, and reliability to complement the experiences included in your itinerary.

🏙 City Hotels

In cities such as Kathmandu and Pokhara, travelers may stay in boutique hotels, heritage style properties, or modern hotels located near cultural landmarks and lively neighborhoods.

🏔 Mountain Lodges

Beyond the cities, peaceful mountain lodges and countryside retreats provide fresh air and beautiful views of valleys, forests, and distant Himalayan peaks.

Service in Nepalese hotels is typically warm and personal, reflecting the country’s long tradition of welcoming travelers from around the world. Many properties also offer a mix of Nepali and international cuisine.

✔ Accommodation Details
All accommodations included in your itinerary are carefully reviewed for comfort, service quality, and location. Rooms are arranged on a double occupancy basis with daily breakfast included.

Your final hotel selection will be shared in your detailed travel proposal so you can review each property before confirming your journey.

✨ Personalized Stay
If you have a particular preference — whether luxury mountain retreats, boutique heritage hotels, or charming lodges — our team will be happy to tailor the accommodation to suit your travel style.

Each SkyZeg journey to Nepal is designed around your travel plans, preferred accommodation, and the experiences you would like to include. Once your itinerary is finalized, our team will share a detailed proposal outlining all services and pricing.

Below is a general overview of what is typically included and not included in the trip cost.

✔ Included in the Price
✈ 24/7 assistance from our travel experts before and throughout your journey.
🧭 English-speaking local guides for sightseeing visits and cultural experiences mentioned in your itinerary.
🚘 Private vehicle with professional driver for transfers and travel between destinations.
⛽ Comfortable vehicles including petrol, road taxes, parking, insurance, and driver expenses.
🏨 Accommodation in selected hotels or lodges based on double occupancy.
🍽 Daily breakfast at the hotel.
✈ Domestic flights within Nepal when mentioned in the itinerary.
📄 Government taxes and service charges applicable at the time of booking.
✖ Not Included in the Price
✈ International flights and airport taxes
🪪 Visa fees and banking charges
🧳 Additional baggage charges according to airline policies
💰 Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, and service staff
🍴 Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
🛍 Drinks and personal expenses including shopping and optional activities
🏛 Entrance fees unless specified
🛡 Travel insurance
⚠ Any service not specifically listed under Included in the Price.
🌤 Best Time to Travel

Nepal can be visited throughout the year, but the most pleasant seasons are autumn and spring.

Autumn (October – November) offers clear skies, spectacular mountain views, and comfortable weather.

Spring (March – May) brings blooming rhododendron forests and lively trekking routes.

Winter (December – February) brings cooler mountain temperatures, though Kathmandu and Pokhara remain pleasant.

Monsoon (June – September) brings lush landscapes but can make travel and trekking more challenging.

🚗 Getting Around

Nepal’s landscapes are dramatic and mountainous, making travel part of the adventure.

Most journeys between cities and valleys are done by road or domestic flights.

Flights often connect Kathmandu, Pokhara, and mountain regions with spectacular Himalayan views.

Road travel connects most towns and villages, though mountain routes can increase travel time.

💰 Currency and Payments

The currency of Nepal is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR).

Cash remains the most common way to pay for everyday purchases, especially in smaller towns and trekking areas.

ATMs are available in major cities such as Kathmandu and Pokhara.

Many hotels, restaurants, and travel services accept major credit cards like Visa and MasterCard.

🏔 Health and Altitude

Nepal’s altitude varies greatly, especially in trekking regions.

Travelers heading to higher elevations should acclimatize gradually and drink plenty of water.

Medical facilities are available in major cities, though remote mountain areas may have limited services.

Bottled or purified water should be used for drinking during your journey.

🌐 Language and Communication

The official language of Nepal is Nepali, though many ethnic languages are spoken across the country.

English is widely understood in tourist areas, hotels, restaurants, and trekking regions.

Mobile networks cover most towns and cities.

Wi-Fi is available in many hotels, cafés, and guesthouses.

🍲 Food and Dining

Nepali cuisine is simple, nourishing, and influenced by regional traditions.

A common meal is dal bhat — rice, lentils, vegetables, and sometimes meat.

International restaurants and cafés are also widely available in cities and popular travel areas.

Tea houses along trekking routes offer warm meals and drinks.

🎒 What to Pack

Packing for Nepal depends on the regions you plan to visit.

Light and comfortable clothing is suitable for cities and valleys.

For trekking regions, layered clothing is essential.

A warm jacket, comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a scarf are recommended.

Even during warm seasons, evenings in the mountains can feel cool.

Start Planning Your Journey
Departure Month

January 2026

Duration

11 Days / 10 Nights

Group Size

According To Need

Location

Kathmandu, Nepal

€0/-

Per Person
Included in Your Trip:
  • All necessary arrangements
  • Support throughout your journey
  • Essential travel services
  • Assistance for smooth planning
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Each destination has its own charm and story. We've selected not only the best places to visit but also hand-picked hotels to ensure your comfort. We also offer options based on your budget and travel style.